MLA and Advisor to the Chief Minister TN Mannen inaugurating the new Panchayat Hall at Khanimu village in Mokokchung district on August 8.
Mokokchung, August 9 (MExN): MLA and Advisor to the Chief Minister for Law & Justice and Land Revenue, TN Mannen, called on the people of Khanimu village in Mokokchung district to work collectively towards building a prosperous and sustainable future. Mannen was speaking at the inauguration of the new Panchayat Hall at Khanimu on August 8, where he stressed the importance of collective responsibility, democratic decision-making and exploring new economic opportunities.
He said development does not happen by chance but requires unity through open discussions, collective decisions and respect for both the majority view and individual voices. “When we decide together, we move forward together,” he said.
Mannen also called on villagers to protect and maintain public assets created with government assistance, including roads, community halls, water sources, schools and health centres. Such assets, he said, belong to the entire community and should be maintained with the same care as private property.
He urged citizens to act as guardians of common resources through cleanliness, timely repairs and responsible use, stating that neglect or misuse of public property ultimately affects every family in the village.
Addressing the youth, Mannen said time was the most valuable resource and encouraged them not to remain dependent on government jobs, which he described as increasingly limited. Instead, he urged young people to pursue self-employment by acquiring skills and exploring opportunities in small enterprises, modern agriculture, animal husbandry, local crafts, tourism and services.
“Become positive contributors to society rather than passive seekers of limited and uncertain government jobs,” he said.
Mannen highlighted Khanimu’s location under the Asetkong range and its road connectivity with Mokokchung town, the district headquarters and neighbouring Assam as key advantages for future development. He said improved connectivity could facilitate business, trade and access to markets.
To harness these advantages, he called on villagers to welcome young and progressive minds and support flexible land policies that could attract investment from different sectors. “An environment of trust, clarity and fairness would encourage entrepreneurs and external investors to see Khanimu as a place worth investing in,” he said.
Mannen said transparent processes and community support would be essential to turn the village’s natural advantages into lasting development. With unity, responsibility and foresight, he said, Khanimu could set an example for the wider region.
The programme included a welcome address by Tongpang Aier, Chairman of the Khanimu Village Council. Short speeches were delivered by N Temjen Aier, Chairman of Longjang Medemsanger Putu Menden, and Yapangla, Project Director, DRDA Mokokchung.
Lima Imchen, Choir Master of LBA, presented a song. Closing remarks were delivered by Tsüpong Aier, Council Member of Khanimu, while S Imli Aier, Deacon of KBA, proposed the vote of thanks.
